How to Arrange Table & Seats in a Small Space

Light, airy colors and appropriate overhead lighting open up a small space.

Your dining room may be small, but it doesn't have to be cramped. The type of table and chairs you choose, and how you arrange them, can be the difference between a tight, uncomfortable space and a cozy, serviceable one. This may mean that you have to let go of your grandmother's big antique dining table, but if you work with the space you have, you'll be much happier with the result.

Round Tables

Round tables work well in small spaces. They give the illusion of more space around the perimeter of your room, they don't have corners to bump against and they can easily accommodate an extra place setting when you have guests over. Choose a round table with a pedestal base to make it even easier to add extra places, and pair your table with backless stools that slide all the way underneath it for the ultimate space-saving setup.

Folding Tables

If your space is particularly small or in a major thoroughfare of the house -- or if you need a multipurpose space -- a folding table might be the way to go. When you're not using it, you can store it in a closet or flat against the wall. Pair this option with folding chairs, or use mismatched chairs from around your house to lend an eclectic look to your table setting. Folding tables come in many stylish varieties, and they allow you to create an instant dining room in any part of the house.

Expandable and Drop-Leaf Tables

The days of heavy, unwieldy expandable tables with large, awkward leaves that clutter up your closet are in the past. There is now a wide range of sleek, attractive expandable tables with self-storing leaves available to help you save dining room space without sacrificing your decor. The average expandable table seats two people at its smallest and expands out to four or six place settings. Drop-leaf tables are another variation on a table that grows when you need it to but saves space the rest of the time. Use armless chairs with smooth lines to further maximize space, and find uses elsewhere in the house for your extra chairs when your table is not expanded.

Wall-Mounted Tables

Wall-mounted tables are the ultimate space-saver, folding down flat against the wall when not in use. These are an optimal choice for very small spaces, but they don't have the versatility of a portable folding table, so use them in situations where your eating area is well-defined. Wall-mounted tables are also generally quite small, with space for only two or three people at most. Despite their limitations, they make it possible to create a breakfast nook almost anywhere.

About the Author

Amy Wilde has worked as a grant developer, copy editor, writing tutor and writer. Based in Portland, Ore., she covers topics related to society, religion and culture. Wilde holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature and classical civilization from the University of Toronto.